Long-sightedness, also known as hyperopia, is a common refractive error in which the eyes may see distant objects more clearly than close objects. This occurs when light entering the eye doesn’t focus correctly on the retina. Glasses or contact lenses may be used to cope with this issue, but some people consider medical procedures such as laser eye surgery for long-sightedness as an alternative option.
This article provides an overview of how laser eye surgery works, the different techniques used, what to expect before and after the procedure, and the factors that determine suitability.
Understanding Long-Sightedness
Long-sightedness, also known as hyperopia, is a refractive error where distant objects might appear clearer than close objects. This happens when light rays entering the eye focus behind the retina rather than directly on it. As a result, nearby objects can appear blurred or out of focus.
What Causes Long-Sightedness
Long-sightedness often results from an abnormally shaped eyeball or a too flat cornea. These variations affect how light is refracted within the eye. The condition can be inherited and may develop gradually over time.
Common Symptoms of Long-Sightedness
People with long-sightedness may experience blurred vision, eyestrain, or headaches, especially after reading or using screens for extended periods. Some may find that distant objects appear clearer than close ones. In more advanced cases, both near and distance vision may be affected.
How Laser Eye Surgery Can Help
Laser eye surgery for long-sightedness aims to correct the way light focuses on the retina. By reshaping the corneal tissue with a laser beam, the procedure allows light to focus on the retina, helping improve vision and potentially reducing reliance on glasses or contact lenses, though outcomes may vary.
Types of Laser Eye Surgery for Long-Sightedness
Laser eye surgeries can be used to address long-sightedness. Each procedure involves a specific method of modifying the corneal surface to adjust how light focuses on the retina.
LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis)
In LASIK, a femtosecond laser creates a flap in the cornea. The corneal tissue underneath is then reshaped with an excimer laser, after which the flap is repositioned. This technique allows for controlled and targeted corneal reshaping.
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
In PRK, the corneal epithelium, the cornea’s outermost layer, is removed before the excimer laser is applied to reshape the corneal surface. The epithelium gradually regenerates following the procedure. PRK may be considered in cases where corneal thickness is limited.
What to Expect Before Surgery
Before laser eye surgery, your eye doctor will conduct a detailed eye examination to gauge your eligibility. Factors including corneal thickness, refractive error, and general eye health will be assessed to understand whether the procedure aligns with your specific vision needs.
What to Expect During Surgery
During the procedure, you will be awake, but your eyes will be numbed with anaesthetic drops. The laser will make calculated adjustments to the cornea using clinically approved technology.
The procedure may be completed within a short time frame, though you may stay longer for other steps.
What to Expect After Surgery
Following the procedure, people may notice changes in their vision over several hours or days. You’ll likely be advised to rest and avoid rubbing your eyes. Protective eyewear may be recommended to shield the eyes during healing.
Recovery from laser eye surgery can vary depending on the type of procedure. Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor healing and assess visual outcomes.
Eligibility for Laser Eye Surgery
Not everyone is a potential candidate for laser eye surgery. Your eligibility depends on several factors, including age, corneal thickness, prescription stability, and overall eye health. An eye care professional will guide you through this assessment to determine if the procedure might be recommended to you.
Potential Considerations and Risks
Like any surgical procedure, laser eye surgery carries some risks. These may include undercorrection or overcorrection, temporary dry eyes, glare, or fluctuations in vision. Most side effects, if present, are temporary and managed through aftercare.
Laser Eye Surgery and Age Considerations
Laser eye surgery is generally suitable for adults over 18 with stable prescriptions. However, suitability may vary depending on individual factors. Some people with age-related changes in their natural lenses may benefit more from refractive lens exchange.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I still wear glasses after the laser eye surgery procedure?
Some people may still require reading glasses or minor corrections, particularly with age-related vision changes. Your eye specialist will guide you on what to expect for your specific case.
Can laser vision correction correct astigmatism?
Yes. Modern laser techniques can address astigmatism by reshaping the cornea to correct irregularities that cause blurred vision.
What happens if my vision changes after laser refractive surgery?
Sometimes, minor adjustments or enhancement procedures may be considered if vision changes over time.
Conclusion
Laser eye surgery for long-sightedness offers a medically recognised approach to correcting refractive errors like hyperopia. Reshaping the cornea can help focus light on the retina, potentially improving how you see distant objects.
If you’re considering treatment options for long-sightedness, an experienced eye care professional might help assess your individual needs and determine whether laser eye surgery or another form of vision correction is recommended.
If you would like more information about laser eye surgery for long-sightedness or to discuss your eligibility for treatment, please contact Dr Edward Roufail at (03) 9071 0180 to arrange a consultation.
Note: Surgical or invasive procedures carry inherent risks. As part of our standard practice, we thoroughly discuss these risks during the consent process before any surgical procedure. Your understanding and comfort are our utmost priority.
References
Lipner, M. (2025, March 26). LASIK Eye Surgery: Factors to Consider. Verywell Health. Retrieved October 13, 2025, from https://www.verywellhealth.com/lasik-eye-surgery-7553679
WebMD Editorial Contributors. (2024, December 6). Hyperopia (Farsightedness). WebMD. Retrieved October 13, 2025, from https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/farsightedness
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